Perlis regent meets economy minister to align state development plans

PERLIS, KANGAR, MALAYSIA, THAILAND, 29 AUGUST 2026 —

Perlis Regent and Economy Minister Hold Strategic Meeting to Align State Development Plans with Federal Priorities

The meeting underscores Perlis’ proactive approach to economic diversification and investment attraction, aligning its local development roadmap with the federal government’s broader economic strategy. With Perlis targeting stronger economic growth, improved welfare outcomes, and expanded investment opportunities, the session signals a concerted effort to harmonize state-level initiatives with national policy frameworks—particularly as Malaysia navigates post-pandemic recovery and structural economic reforms.

The audience with the regent included Tuanku Tengku Fauziah Almarhum Tengku Abdul Rashid, Raja Perempuan Perlis, alongside key officials: Datuk Seri Nor Azmie Diron, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Economy; Datuk Noor Azman Abdul Rahman, Perlis State Secretary; and Saharuddin Sarwan, Perlis State Financial Officer. The discussions centered on three core pillars: reinforcing Perlis’ economic growth momentum, enhancing citizen welfare, and broadening investment and economic activity avenues.

Akmal Nasrullah, who led the federal delegation, emphasized the need for synchronized planning between the state and national governments to ensure development projects deliver measurable benefits for Perlis’ population. The ministry’s top official, Nor Azmie Diron, highlighted the importance of leveraging federal resources—such as targeted grants, infrastructure funding, and sector-specific incentives—to accelerate Perlis’ economic transformation.

State officials, including Noor Azman, stressed the alignment of Perlis’ development blueprint with federal priorities, including digital economy initiatives, sustainable agriculture, and tourism expansion, to attract both domestic and foreign capital.

The meeting follows Perlis’ recent push to position itself as a high-potential investment destination, particularly in agribusiness, renewable energy, and light manufacturing. State authorities have previously outlined plans to develop specialized economic zones and improve connectivity to boost trade flows with neighboring states and ASEAN partners. The collaboration with the Ministry of Economy is expected to streamline approval processes for key projects, including the proposed Perlis Industrial Park and upgrades to the state’s logistics infrastructure.

Market analysts note that Perlis’ economic strategy aligns with broader federal efforts to decentralize growth beyond Kuala Lumpur and Penang, particularly as the government seeks to reduce regional disparities. The state’s proximity to Thailand and its existing trade ties with ASEAN economies also position it as a gateway for cross-border investments.

However, the success of these initiatives hinges on the timely disbursement of federal funds and the resolution of bureaucratic hurdles that have historically slowed project execution in northern Malaysia.

The next phase of collaboration will focus on finalizing a joint action plan by October, with both parties committing to quarterly progress reviews. Perlis’ state government has already outlined a RM5 billion development fund for 2026–2027, with allocations earmarked for SME support, rural electrification, and digital infrastructure—areas where federal-state synergy could unlock additional funding. The meeting’s outcome will be formally documented in a memorandum of understanding to be signed within the next 30 days.

Related: Kementerian Ekonomi